As the AFL Fantasy season reaches its ninth round, the landscape is shifting. After a challenging start, coaches are now making strategic moves, upgrading and downgrading players to optimize their teams. This week, the focus is on mid-priced players, with a few surprises and potential traps for the unwary.
One of the most intriguing trades involves Caleb Serong (MID, $895,000). His recent form, averaging 76 in the past three games, has not gone unnoticed. Personally, I think this is a smart move, as Serong offers better value than his more expensive counterparts. However, what makes this particularly fascinating is the potential for a short-term boost, as coaches look to capitalize on his current form. In my opinion, this is a treat for those who can afford it, but it's a riskier move than it initially seems.
Another player in the spotlight is Melbourne's Jack Steele (MID, $984,000). Steele's early-season brilliance, averaging 114 in his first five games, has faded. His recent average of 82 in the past three games is a stark contrast. From my perspective, this is a trap for those who are still holding onto him. Steele's decline is a reminder that form can be fickle, and coaches should be cautious when upgrading to expensive players.
Bailey Dale (DEF, $869,000) is a treat worth considering. His average of 114 in the past three games is impressive, and his upcoming schedule is favorable. What many people don't realize is that Dale's consistency and strong run of games make him a reliable option. If you take a step back and think about it, this is a player who is likely to continue performing well, especially with a nice run of games ahead of him.
On the other hand, Sam Berry (MID, $842,000) is a trap to avoid. His recent score of 156 is an outlier, and his previous scores of 67 and 80 highlight his inconsistency. Berry's tackling prowess is undeniable, but his scoring reliability is a concern. If you're considering him, you should be aware of the risk.
Hugh McCluggage (MID, $806,000) is another treat worth picking. His increased game time and consistent scoring make him a smart choice. What this really suggests is that McCluggage is a player on the rise, and his value is likely to continue increasing. If you're looking for a mid-priced player with upside, McCluggage is a strong contender.
Izak Rankine (MID/FWD, $759,000) is a player to watch, but his draw is a concern. After facing the Tigers, he has a challenging run of games ahead, including a Kangaroos tag and a match-up with Geelong's top tagger. This raises a deeper question: is Rankine a treat or a trap? In my opinion, the price is right, but the draw is a potential pitfall. It's a fine line to tread.
Dyson Sharp (MID, $352,000) is a treat worth considering. His performance against the Lions was impressive, and his attendance at CBAs suggests he's ready to go. What this suggests is that Sharp is a player on the rise, and his low price makes him an attractive option. If you're looking for a bargain, Sharp is a player to consider.
In terms of upgrades, Sam Cumming (MID, $397,000) is a great downgrade option. His performance against the Tigers was strong, and an injury to Dion Prestia could further boost his time in the middle. Toby Murray (FWD, $306,000) is another solid choice, with a big score boosted by marks and goals. Marcus Bontempelli (MID, $980,000) is a tempting option, but his numerous injuries are a concern. It's a fine line between a treat and a trap.
As for the draft, one-week streaming options are a smart strategy. Finding players with low ownership and juicy match-ups can provide a short-term boost. Miles Bergman (DEF) and Lawson Humphries (DEF) are players to consider, especially against the Bulldogs and Collingwood, respectively. Noah Balta (DEF/FWD) is another option, with a career-high score last week.
In conclusion, the ninth round of AFL Fantasy is shaping up to be an exciting one. Coaches are making strategic moves, and the draft is offering a range of options. From treats to traps, the key is to stay informed and make smart choices. As always, it's a fine balance between taking risks and playing it safe. If you're looking for a competitive edge, keep an eye on the trades and the draft, and don't be afraid to make bold moves.
